I want to use my column this month to acknowledge and give thanks for all the talented musicians of our church. I also want to highlight two upcoming Christmas musical events.

We are truly blessed with many capable and gifted people who freely share their musical abilities with us. In fact, after our most recent Fall show, a visitor commented to me, “Boy, this church is lucky to have so many talented people.” We are “lucky” or perhaps a better word is “blessed”.

Of course, like any endeavor in the church, it all begins with leadership. Barbara Green has demonstrated a consistent and high level of leadership and musicianship for many years. Not only is she a wonderful organist and pianist, but she has been able to gather around her and direct a great group of musicians to form our Sanctuary and Bell choirs. Both of these groups have been a tremendous blessing during our worship services.

In addition, in recent years Barbara has organized and produced our annual fall concert. This year it was decided to have two shows instead of the usual one. In previous years the sanctuary had been overflowing with members and guests. This year, we comfortably filled the sanctuary twice with enthusiastic people who thoroughly enjoyed “The Nifty Fifties”. The Sanctuary Choir was excellent as was the Children’s Choir directed by Gene Stremme. All the soloists and specialty acts sounded wonderful and my hat’s off to our very gifted drummer, Matt Robinson, and bass player, Patrick Rodgers. In addition, Doug Hargis did a superb job as the narrator of the show and our technical crew was flawless. All in all, it was another great night at Grace Baptist. Thank you, Barbara, and all of the musicians of Grace Baptist!

What’s next? Two important programs of music come to mind. First, the Sanctuary Choir is planning to share their annual Christmas cantata, Sing We Now of Christmas: A Service of Lessons and Carols, on Sunday, December 13. I always look forward to these presentations (and not because I don’t have to preach!). The choir always does a marvelous job of sharing the message of Christmas through song. It’s a highlight of the season that you won’t want to miss.

Second, on December 20 at 4:00 P.M., Gene Stremme and the Graceland kids will be presenting The Inn Crowd followed by a meal. I can’t say enough about the great job our kids do! You can read all about both of our choir programs on the cover of this issue of Grace Notes.

A long time ago we’re told that when Mary received confirmation that she would give birth to Jesus, she expressed her joy in song: My soul doth magnify the Lord: And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. I am confident that your Christmas preparation and celebration will be enhanced as you participate in both of these music events. May we join with our choirs to “magnify the Lord” and “rejoice in God [Our] Savior.

In Christ,

Pastor George Hawthorne